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Harrison Ford Becomes the Face of Glenmorangie

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Harrison Ford wears a kilt and holds a bottle of Glenmorangie whilst filming in Scotland.

In a series of twelve episodic films directed by actor and film-maker Joel Edgerton, iconic movie legend Harrison Ford takes us on a behind the scenes journey around Scotland to the historic Glenmorangie distillery in Tain where Glenmorangie has been produced for over 180 years.

The series called ‘Once upon a time in Scotland’, clearly shows that Harrison has a passion for whisky, each episode being a great advert for Scotch Whisky in general, not just for Glenmorangie. Using his trademark wry humour and sense of adventure, Ford along with the Glenmorangie distillery team work together to give a real sense of the people and places behind Glenmorangie whisky. Being an unscripted series, each episode is packed full of real conversations and Ford’s soft spot for Glenmorangie and passion for the project clearly shine through in what is an entertaining 12 part series.

Harrison Ford sits on a hill over looking a loch and holds a bottle of Glenmorangie whilst filming in Scotland

The idea for the episodic films was to go beyond the previous campaign Delicious and Wonderful, which was to introduce drinkers to whisky and Glenmorangie in particular, by sharing a little more of the brands heritage and history. It shows Ford getting to grips with the nuances of Scottish pronunciation and kilt etiquette, and bonding with locals over a dram of single malt. There is a feel of a real Scottish experience from a newcomer’s point of view. Harrison Ford said of the experience “I loved working with the team at the Distillery — they were all great. The whole process of filming was full of unanticipated joys: little unexpected moments. It’s a tribute to Glenmorangie’s sensibilities that they let us be less than totally serious. I think what Joel has produced has a certain charm to it, because it’s unpretentious and just amusing.”

Glenmorangie’s flagship whiskies, Glenmorangie Original 12 Years old and Glenmorangie Infinita 18 Years Old also take centre stage in the episodes. Beyond the film, there is no change to the whiskies Glenmorangie is producing, for now the core range will stay the same and as the packaging has only recently been overhaled, there is no change there either. So, Glenmorangie drinkers can enjoy their dram just as they have done but now in the knowledge that they are sharing their love for the brand with a true global icon!

Once Upon a Time in Scotland will roll out globally from 28 January 2025 spanning online video, connected TV and social media. Six full-length episodes and an array of behind the-scenes content will initially be available to view on glenmorangie.com, with the rest released throughout 2025.

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The Argument for Aber Falls

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Aber Falls Distillery Front View with Mountains behind.

Distilling in Wales, like Scotland, has been around for hundreds of years. Although, unlike Scotland, it died out at the beginning of the 20th Century when the last notable distillery, built by R.J. Lloyd Price in 1887 at Frongoch, was closed in 2010. Historically Welsh whisky was made in the same way as Scotch using a double distillation method rather than the Irish method of triple distillation. The style of whisky these days, however, is quite different with single, double and triple distillation methods used.

In the new world of whisky making, Welsh whisky isn’t that new. Penderyn distillery, which uses a Faraday still with a single distillation method, was built in 2000 and will celebrate its 25th birthday this year. The Aber Falls distillery in Abergwyngregyn, Gwynedd, started production of it’s triple distilled whisky in 2017 and released its first whisky in 2021. There are also much newer distilleries such as, In The Welsh Wind and Coles distilleries built after the Covid-19 pandemic, and Swansea Copperworks which opened in 2023.

With the number of distilleries in Wales growing, the distilleries grouped together to try and gain a geographical indication (GI). This is a legal right that protects the name of a product that is linked to a specific geographical area, and following in the footsteps of Scotch whisky, which has had a GI for many years, Welsh whisky was granted their own in 2024. English whisky has applied for one, but it has not been granted yet.

With investment in Welsh whisky distilling increasing and having obtained a GI, Welsh whisky is naturally growing in popularity. Arguably, Aber Falls, which is set on the edge of Snowdonia in a stunning location next to the sea, has become the better known of the Welsh distilleries. Being only 90 minutes from Liverpool and 2 ½ hours from Birmingham, it is easier to visit than its Scottish counterparts. The distillery was built by Halewood Artisanal Spirits, which have a strong history of distilling all types of spirits at their distilleries in Edinburgh and Blackpool, but it is whisky that they are most known for.

Aber Falls is stocked by most specialist whisky retailers and is also readily available on Amazon and in Tesco supermarkets. It offers customers a high-quality, smooth triple distilled whisky at a very affordable price. Maturing well in a mixture of casks including ex bourbon, ex sherry and ex red wine casks, it is bottled at a relatively young age and yet still gives a rich smooth whisky. With a bottle of Aber Falls costing under £25, it would be easy to think that the quality of the whisky falls short of other more expensive single malt whiskies but this is far from the truth. Aber Falls is frequently ranked as better than many of its competitors and this was borne out by its winning a gold medal at the International Spirits Challenge in 2024.

Now, although one may not consider collecting Aber Falls bottles, their casks might well be worth thinking about. Aber Falls sell new casks directly to customers at a reasonable price, but for a bargain, at the moment Cask Trade have a sale on Aber Falls casks which are about to turn three years old this year. Cask ownership interest can be registered here.

For those who want to get their hands on a bottle to try first, you can find more information below:

Aber Falls Single Malt Welsh Whisky bottles

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £24.75

Matching Your Favourite Drink To A Casino Game You'll Enjoy

Delineating the best casino game can be as unique as choosing your favourite drink. How about matching both for a tailored fun experience?

All casino games have their own style and rhythm—can this be matched up to your favourite drink? It doesn't much matter whether you're relaxing after work or getting ready for a Saturday night at home; matching your favourite drink to the appropriate game can enhance your pleasure and add a bit of individuality to your time spent at an online casino.

Among the top-performing casino games, some reflect the excitement, refinement, or impulsiveness of well-known beverages. Below are six all-time drink-and-game classics that will likely amaze you at how well they are matched.

Whiskey and Poker

There is something universally timeless about a smooth whiskey and a serious game of poker. Each needs patience, an understanding of subtlety and a dash of nerve. Poker is perhaps one of the most skill-based games at casino sites available on AskGamblers and it's geared towards individuals who enjoy thinking ahead at least three times.

Savouring an exceptional whiskey and observing the table develop instils a serene concentration into the game. Bluffing all-in on an ace straight or folding on an inferior pair, whiskey complements the game's analytical quality. The rich, smoky taste reflects the richness and strength of every choice made. Texas Hold'em or Omaha rooms that are held with live dealers are perfect for online enthusiasts for experiencing this combo—talkin' about you, all-day session serious types!

Champagne and Roulette

There's more to champagne than sipping it on New Year's Eve or at weddings—it's for any occasion at all, including excitement at the spin of a roulette wheel. One of the most vibrant and exciting games that can be found at any type of casino, roulette also goes best with the fizz and sparkle of an appropriate bubbly.

The thrill of expectation as the ball whirls and slows on the wheel is like seeing the cork soar and then waiting for that first taste. It's drama and excitement and sometimes suspense all mixed together—just like buying an old wine you've only heard about. If you like thrills at high stakes and uncertainty at its best, break open a bottle and put money on red or black.

Beer and Blackjack

Blackjack struck just the right balance between complexity and simplicity, which is why it's such a favourite among gamblers. It requires just enough focus to stay exciting but not enough to be an endurance trial. In much the same way, beer enthusiasts enjoy depth but eschew oversimplification.

Opening an icy IPA or silky amber ale and sitting down for some hands of blackjack hits just the right note. There's time to savour every round and you can bet accordingly as each card comes along.

Online blackjack tables, particularly those that incorporate live dealers, provide that social aspect which complements easy-going beer-in-hand play. It's perfect for an evening at home or a relaxed unwind.

Red Wine and Baccarat

As for you red wine enthusiasts, you can consider yourself potentially matched up with baccarat. With its refined tempo and classy image, baccarat has been synonymous with sophistication and level-headed action for some time.

Baccarat involves very little decision-making when you contrast it against other card games, but that doesn’t render it boring. There's tension and a smooth game flow, along with an aura of tradition that suits someone who likes a glass of Malbec, Shiraz, or Pinot Noir.

Most of the casinos provide nicely designed baccarat tables that resemble high-end lounges and therefore, you can experience an elevated wine-and-play session from them.

Cocktails and Slots

Vibrant, creative and endlessly varied—cocktails and slots go together like lime and tequila. If you love mixing things up, enjoy a bit of surprise, or just want a game with fast gratification and visual flair, slots are your best friend.

Whether you're spinning mythology-based reels, movies, or classic fruit symbols, there's a slot for every type of player. And why not create a cocktail to suit? Mojitos and margaritas come to mind, but how about something exotic like a spicy paloma or espresso martini? Slots offer the ultimate no-pressure gaming option, ideal for casual players looking to add some fun to their leisure time.

Live Dealer and Espresso

For you late nights or risk takers who want to keep their focus extremely acute, a good shot of espresso can be just the right sidekick. Live dealer games, be it blackjack, baccarat, or roulette, are both interactive and time-sensitive and usually demand quick decisions and acute focus.

Alongside a new shot of caffeine comes an ability to experience at home the excitement and realism of an actual real-time table game. Espresso is to table games like turbo mode is to video slots—it kicks you and keeps you on the edge all the way!

Get Personal With Your Matching

Gaming is not winning and losing; it is entertainment. Matching the game to your own personality or mood and pairing it with your preferred drink enhances the entire experience.

Whether you are an avid gamer or just starting, there's no such thing as the wrong way to play online gaming. Much like beverages, your choices can change over time, or even rely on what type of day you're on. Next time you grab a drink and sit down at the computer, be sure to sync up your vibe with your game. It isn’t just fun—it’s how you play.

Tips for choosing the right wine cooler for your home

Sponsored by wineandbarrels.co.uk 

When it comes to storing wine, getting the right wine cooler from Wineandbarrels can make all the difference. Whether you're a casual drinker or a more serious wine enthusiast, a good wine cooler can help maintain the ideal temperature, preserve the quality of your bottles, and keep your collection in good condition for longer. But with so many options available, how do you choose the one that’s right for you? Here are some practical tips to help guide your decision.

 

Think about capacity

The first thing to consider when choosing a wine cooler is how many bottles you need to store. Wine coolers come in a wide range of sizes, from small units that hold a few bottles to larger models designed for serious wine collectors. If you’re just getting started or only have a small collection, a compact cooler might be all you need. But if you’re planning to build a larger collection over time, you may want to invest in a bigger unit with more storage space. Always think ahead — there’s nothing worse than running out of space when your collection grows.

 

Temperature control matters

Temperature is key to preserving wine, and not just any temperature will do. Most wines are best stored between 10°c and 18°c, with reds typically needing a bit warmer storage than whites. Many wine coolers come with adjustable temperature settings, which allow you to set the ideal temperature for the type of wine you’re storing. Some models even offer dual-zone cooling, meaning you can store both reds and whites at their optimal temperatures in one unit. If you have a variety of wines, this feature might be worth considering.

 

Check the design and size

Wine coolers come in different designs, and you’ll want to think about how the unit will fit into your space. Some are built to be integrated into your kitchen or bar area, while others are freestanding and can be placed wherever they fit best. Before making your decision, measure the available space carefully and consider how the cooler will look in your home. It should blend in with your decor but also be easily accessible for when you need a bottle.

 

Consider the noise level

If you plan to place your cooler in a living area, the noise level could be an important factor. While most wine coolers are designed to run quietly, some models are noisier than others. If noise is a concern for you, especially if you’re placing the unit in an open-plan living space or near a bedroom, it’s worth checking specifications to ensure the model you’re considering operates quietly.

 

Think about the extras

Some wine coolers come with additional features that can make storing wine even easier. Adjustable shelves can be useful for accommodating bottles of different sizes, while built-in LED lighting can help you see your collection clearly without exposing your wine to excessive light. Some units also come with UV-protective glass, which can help protect the quality of your wine from harmful sunlight. While these extras may not be essential, they can add convenience and value to your cooler.

 

At Wineandbarrels, we offer a range of wine coolers to suit all needs, whether you’re just starting to build your collection or looking for a more advanced model. From small, compact coolers to larger, more sophisticated units, we’ve got you covered. Just keep in mind what matters most to you, capacity, temperature control, design, and energy efficiency, and you’ll find the right wine cooler to keep your bottles in top condition for years to come.

 

Inclusivity in Wine: Hallgarten & Novum Wines to Run Free WSET Level 2 Course

Hallgarten & Novum Inclusivity in Wine Programme 2025

Listen up all you in the hospitality trade as Hallgarten & Novum Wines is running a WSET Level 2 course free of charge from February 2025!

Much like The Three Drinkers with our DRINKLUSIVE mentorship, Hallgarten & Novum Wines aims to improve equity, diversity and inclusivity within the wine trade. As a result, the course will open to those from a diverse background, including but not limited to, disability, ethnicity, neurodiversity, gender and sexuality.

If you have a passion and/or interest in wine, a basic level of knowledge of wine, and are competent in both written and spoken English, then fill in this registration form, complete the knowledge check within it and return everything to editeam@hnwines.co.uk by Monday the 16th of December.

If this isn’t for you, but you know someone that it would be perfect for, please share the link!

Course details:

Dates:
Monday 3rd February 2025
Monday 10th February 2025
Monday 17th February 2025

Time:
09.00 - 17.00

Place
Wembley Stadium, Wembley, London HA9 0WS

Course Places Available:
12

From all of us at Team 3D, GOOD LUCK!

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Beyond The Sweet: Exploring The Bold World of Savoury Spirits

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Best Savoury spirits Robbie Jerram thethreedrinkers.com The Three Drinkers

In cocktails, sweetness can often take centre stage, but there’s a new flavour frontier among mixologists and spirit enthusiasts shaking up the bar scene: savoury spirits. These characterful and complex flavours offer a new dimension to the drinking experience for those who crave depth over sugar - and there’s definitely a growing trend for savoury offerings. From herbaceous and coastal gins to earthy vodkas to peppery tequilas, smoky mezcals and peated whiskies, savoury options redefine what it means to enjoy a well-crafted, spirited drink. 

No ingredients are off the table to bridge the gap between the bar and the kitchen, and there’s much to savour; think cooking spices, earthy root veg, olives, garden herbs, foraged seaweeds, warming chilli peppers, roasted agave and smoky peat. Producers can work with almost anything that adds flavour to a spirit as long as it's approved for human consumption. 

‘Botanicals’ although not a legally defined word in spirit production, is an overarching term for any part of a plant used to flavour a spirit such as fruit, leaves, roots, barks or seeds. Animal flavourings can also be used in production (eg pechuga mezcal as touched on below) but these are less common.

If you’re ready for new adventures in flavour, check out these are nine savoury spirits below!

Portobello Road No.171 Savoury Gin (London, UK)

Best Savoury spirits Portobello Road Gin Robbie Jerram thethreedrinkers.com The Three Drinkers

Let’s begin with herbaceous botanicals and a Mediterranean-inspired gin produced with restaurateurs and foodies in mind. Portobello Road created this stand-out product to prove that gin doesn’t need to hide behind a floral or fruity identity to be popular. It’s a vibrant juniper-led gin made with a supportive blend that includes Calabrian bergamot peel, rosemary, basil, green olive and a pinch of Mediterranean sea salt to masterfully bring delicious notes of citrus, herb and delicate spice to the palate. Pair this savoury gin with Mediterranean or Mallorcan tonic for a refreshing gin and tonic and garnish it with a sprig of fresh rosemary. Particularly loved by Martini lovers, this also makes a splendid Dirty Martini or Gibson by adding dry vermouth, olive, brine or onion respectively. Once you’ve poured your drink, settle in for a cosy movie night with a Richard Curtis romcom set in Portobello such as Notting Hill or Love Actually. The absolutely perfect gin bottle, standing in front of a gin lover, asking them to love her.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 42%
Find here: £37.94

Isle of Wight Distillery Mermaid Gin (IOW, UK)

Best Savoury spirits Mermaid Gin Robbie Jerram thethreedrinkers.com The Three Drinkers

Leaving London, if sea air inspires you, you may already know about rock samphire - a plant that clings precariously to sea cliffs all around the British Isles. The people who make Mermaid Gin on the Isle of Wight hand-pick this botanical from chalk cliffs where it’s known locally as ‘Mermaid’s Kiss’, hence the gin’s name. In Shakespeare’s King Lear, the harvesting of Samphire was described as ‘a dreadful trade’. When Edgar tries to convince the blinded Gloucester that he’s standing on a clifftop at Dover, he describes the scene to him, explaining that “halfway down hangs one who gathers samphire - a dreadful trade - methinks he seems no bigger than his head.” A risky business to harvest, rock samphire (also known as sea fennel) stands out in this gin with a characterful citrus zing bringing you coastal notes, combined with peppery spice from the other ingredients which include juniper and grains of paradise. 

No cliffhangers here, this is definitely a gin worth trying.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 41.5%
Find here: £36.05

Four Pillars Olive Leaf Gin (Australia)

Best Savoury spirits Four Pillars Olive Leaf Gin Robbie Jerram thethreedrinkers.com The Three Drinkers

Love olives? Then now let’s head down under to explore a multi-award-winning, bright and delicious savoury Aussie gin made with three types of cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil, olive leaf tea, rosemary, bay leaf, macadamia nuts and lemon myrtle. The aroma, flavour and texture of fresh olive is stunning. Very Mediterranean yet also very Australian at the same time. 

Perfect for a Gibson martini or in a G&T garnished with rosemary to accentuate the positively olivey notes. Bonzer.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43.8%
Find here: £36.25

Shanty Seaweed Botanical Vodka (Dorset, UK)

Shanty Seaweed Botanical Vodka Robbie Jerram three drinkers

Heading back to the UK now to expand on the coastal theme, here’s an expertly crafted small-batch vodka from Dorset that blends five hand-foraged British seaweeds to create stunning undercurrents of umami flavour. The subtle depth of flavour is further enhanced by ‘ripples’ of Asia with wasabi, galangal, yuzu, bergamot and sea buckthorn together with a pinch of local Dorset sea salt to remineralise the purest of water with which the spirit is cut.  Sip this and your taste buds instantly transport you somewhere quite magical and evoke the shoreline’s magnetic pull - you can almost hear waves softly lapping, whichever continent you’re on. The bottle itself is a work of art, fabulously reminiscent of a ship’s decanter, featuring a wrap-around design by Dorset artist Emma Brownjohn. As you turn the bottle around, the image distorts through the glass like you’re viewing the scene underwater! A vodka to savour, whether on its own or with a mixer.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £32

St George Distillery Green Chile Vodka (California, USA)

Best Savoury spirits St. George Distillery Green Chile Vodka Old Robbie Jerram thethreedrinkers.com The Three Drinkers

Staying with vodka, we now head to the US for a grain vodka that has a distinct flavour. In the glass, freshness meets a juicy, vegetal quality for a truly unique and delicious spirit. St George’s Green Chile vodka is made with five types of pepper with varying sweet/savoury qualities, all of which are grown in California: Jalapeño, Serrano, Habanero, Red Bell and Yellow Bell Pepper. The peppers in this spirit, combine with lime peel and coriander and result in rich and earthy aromas and flavours that dance on the palate to provide a spicy, perfect punch for the ultimate Bloody Mary.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £40.25

1800 Silver Blanco Tequila (Mexico)

Best Savoury spirits 1800 Silver Blanco Tequila Old Robbie Jerram thethreedrinkers.com The Three Drinkers

Moving south from California into Mexico, here we find the brand that makes the world’s most-awarded Tequilas - with good reason. The key to 1800 Tequila’s excellence lies in its meticulous production process. Using 100% blue Weber agave, hand-picked from the fertile fields of the Jalisco region in Mexico, the brand embodies craftsmanship, quality and flavour. This unaged, pepper-forward, delicate spice tequila serves as a true representation of the pure essence of the agave plant. It offers a clean and crisp taste with subtle hints of citrus and pepper giving depth of flavour on which to base a refreshing Margarita. 

Don’t let the reasonable price fool you, this is quality Tequila: the solution to all of life’s prickly situations. 

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £26 (normally £33)


QuiQuiRiQui Mole Pechuga Mezcal

Best Savoury spirits QuiQuiRiQui Mole Pechuga Mezcal Robbie Jerram thethreedrinkers.com The Three Drinkers

Next we have a niche subcategory of Mexican spirit distilled from the agave plant: Pechuga mezcal. This is a nuanced, centuries-old, artisanal distillation method that remains unsung. Most pechugas follow a family formula passed down through generations, and call for local ingredients. Uncooked meat is usually suspended in the still to add animal protein/fats to the distillation process making it quite unique...  

But the thing about QuiQuiRiQui Mole Pechuga is, it’s vegetarian-friendly! A small batch mezcal made with local Espadin agave that’s roasted, fermented and distilled using traditional methods. Then, instead of meat, homemade black mole paste is rested in the spirit for two weeks before the second distillation. The mole paste is made with chillies, sesame seeds, almonds, peanuts, garlic, onions, raisins, bananas and cacao. This intriguing expression combines the characteristic thick mouthfeel of pechuga mezcal with aromas of leather, earth, black pepper and chocolate complemented by notes of toasted nuts, stewed fruit, earthy spice, roasted cacao and peppery spice throughout the palate.

As savoury spirits go, this is so intriguing, it’s one you just have to try - whether you’re veggie or not.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 47%
Find here: £69.25

Caol Ila 12 year old Single Malt Whisky (Islay, Scotland)

Best Savoury spirits Coal Ila 12 Year Old Robbie Jerram thethreedrinkers.com The Three Drinkers

Caol Ila’s 12 year old (Pronunciation: "kool-eela") is Islay’s hidden single malt aged in ex-bourbon casks. Presenting lighter and more subtly than other Islay peated whiskies with a malt smokiness, it’s a whisky that’s highly prized by connoisseurs. Following our theme of savoury spirits, this is the one that best fits a flavour profile reminiscent of summer barbeques. Think savoury, grilled food aromas and BBQ flavours with a light fragrant smokiness on the nose, and a pleasant brine on the palate. In Gaelic, Caol Ila means “Sound of Islay”, referring to the distillery’s location overlooking the strait between Islay and Jura.  It’s a nice, uncomplicated, easy-drinking Islay Single Malt. Although peated whiskies aren’t to everyone’s tastes, I will say, many people who claim to not usually like peated whisky have said they enjoy drinking this one - just saying - a dram good trip - Islay be back.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £48.95

Linie Aquavit (Norway)

Best Savoury spirits Linie Aquavit Robbie Jerram thethreedrinkers.com The Three Drinkers

Finally, if you like an aged spirit but want something younger than 12 years old with a fine story, this one’s a must. On any trip to Scandinavia, one can be inundated by a complexity of spicy and savoury flavours, especially charismatic herbs such as dill, anise, coriander and caraway seeds. These are showcased perfectly in Norway’s national spirit, Linie Aquavit, which is now finding favour in some of the world’s more innovative bars. The distilled potato-based spirit derives its curious name from its unusual maturation at sea in oak casks, on board Norwegian trade ships that cross the equator (linie) twice en route to Australia and back again. This method results in many changes in temperature during the voyage which speeds up maturation. Check out the story on the label: “sailed to the other side of the world and back again for more than 200 years”. A bottle of Linie Aquavit on your table will provide both a talking point for your next family gathering and a delicious after dinner digestif best enjoyed the Scandinavian way - as a neat shot served at room temperature - with everybody drinking the shot in one. It can also be sipped of course. Aquavit’s herbal flavours will soothe the stomach and help with digestion after a large meal or family celebration. It complements many foods, and if you get a taste for it, you may even try pairing different styles of aquavit with different dishes. If you prefer to go your own way, it can also be served with a mixer over ice - but there’s no need to chill this bottle. It wouldn’t do those savoury flavours justice.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 41.5%
Find here: £37.83

I hope you feel inspired to try some new savoury spirits, either to drink on their own, with a mixer or in a delicious cocktail. There are plenty of new flavours out there to savour - as they say, the world’s your oyster!

By Robbie Jerram

To see more from Robbie either click on her bio above or here!

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One Drink, Three Ways: Holy Grass Vodka

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One Drink, Three Ways is the signature feature by The Three Drinkers. Join us as we take one bottle and create a trio of phenomenal serves that you can enjoy anytime, anywhere. From rums and whiskies to gins and wine styles, we help you get the most out of your glass. It’s time to get liquid on lips.

Holy Grass Vodka One Drink Three Ways Photo Credit Will Wong

Photo Credit: Will Wong

An artisan produce of Dunnet Bay Distillers in Scotland, Holy Grass Vodka takes its name from the the hero botanical Anthoxanthum nitens, a delicate, sweet-scented grass that grows on the banks of the Thurso River near the distillery in Caithness. It is commonly known as Holy Grass, Bison Grass or Sweet Grass. 

But in fact, Dunnet Bay have to source the botanical from elsewhere because their local grass enjoys protected status! 

The spirit is infused with a carefully crafted vapour of Scottish apple juice, to complement the sweetness of the Holy Grass. Served neat straight out of the freezer, it is floral and aromatic with hints of chamomile and honey. The palate is sweet with vanilla and a lingering long finish. As the vodka warms up in your glass, its immediate sweetness becomes more subdued.

One Drink Three Ways Holy Grass Vodka Photo Credit Will Wong Guave and Lime Spritz

Guava & Lime Spritz

Ingredients:
50ml (1 & 3/4 oz) Holy Grass Vodka
150ml (5oz) Franklin & Sons Guava & Lime Soda
1 sprig of fresh mint
Wedge of lime to garnish

The perfect aperitif for all seasons, it is simple to make and remarkably fresh and uplifting. Method: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes and add the vodka. Shake with passion and rigour until the outside of the shaker feels cold to touch. Fill a highball glass with ice and drain the ice cold vodka through a sieve into the glass. Finally, top up with the Guava & Lime Soda, add a sprig of fresh mint and a wedge of lime to garnish!

One Drink Three Ways Holy Grass Vodka DRINKLUSIVE Mentee Will Wong Bloody Mary Cocktail

Bloody Mary

Ingredients:
45ml (1 &1/2 oz) Holy Grass Vodka
7.5ml (1/4 oz) fino or manzanilla (dry) sherry
7.5ml (1/4 oz) freshly squeezed lemon juice
7.5ml (1/4 oz) pickle brine
120ml (4 oz) tomato juice
1/2 tsp celery salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 splashes of Worcestershire sauce
Celery stick to garnish

The Bloody Mary, as well as being a fine drink for the evening, is a great pick-me-up first thing in the morning! What makes this recipe by Olly Smith different is the addition of sherry. Both are clear and bright, with salinity that deliver on texture, umami and a zippy, upbeat balance. Method: Fill a tall glass with ice, add all the ingredients and stir well to chill. Garnish with celery stick, lime wedge and a pickle. Cheers!

One Drink Three Ways Holy Grass Vodka DRINKLUSIVE Mentee Will Wong Dry Vodka Martini Cocktail

Dry Vodka Martini

Ingredients:
75ml (2 &1/2 oz) Holy Grass Vodka
15ml (1/2 oz) dry vermouth 
A dash of olive brine or olive bitters.
Olive, lemon twist, or lemon zest to garnish

“Shaken, not stirred” are the famous words of Bond, James Bond with his License to Thrill. Just make sure you are looking dapper in your black tie or that head-turning cocktail dress. Method: Fill a shaker with ice and add all the ingredients. Give everything a good shake to combine and double strain into a chilled glass. Finally, add your preferred garnish. Top Tip: The colder the ingredients, the better so keep your vodka in the freezer if possible. Also, add ice to your glass before you start preparing your cocktail to cool the glass down.

Like this? Check our other One Drink, Three Ways pieces here.

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